Super Bowl 2012: Defensive Stars Destined to Impact Epic Game

The following players will remind us all that there are some playmakers on the defensive side of things in the 2012 Super Bowl. 

That is no easy task because for the most part the hype of this game surrounds the players on the offensive side of the ball. And that is certainly for good reason. These teams have been dominated by their offense all year.

The Giants finished 27th in total defense and the Patriots 31st. 

Still, both of these defenses have been playing better in the playoffs, and they both have players ready to impact this game. 

Patriots' NT Vince Wilfork 

Wilfork has been the heart of this defense for years. This season has been no different. In fact, it has probably been even more pronounced. 

Here is Patriots' coach Bill Belichick, as quoted by the Associated Press via the San Francisco Chronicle, on Wilfork:

"

He's been huge. Vince has had a great year for us. He's had obviously a great career, had an outstanding year last year, but this year it's even gone a step higher.

"

Wilfork will be able to overwhelm the Giants' average (being generous) offensive line, shut down the Giants' interior rushing efforts, and put some pressure on Eli Manning as well. 

Giants' DE Jason Pierre-Paul

The Patriots' offensive line has been playing at a much higher level than the Giants'. In two playoff games, New England has allowed just one sack, and Tom Brady has been hit just five times. 

It is going to take a special player to apply QB pressure for the Giants in this game, and that is exactly what Pierre-Paul is. 

Pierre-Paul has the ability to take over games. He's also had success against this offensive line. He had a sack when these two met in the regular season. 

Jason will get at least a sack in this one. Also look for him to bat down a pass or two. 

Patriots' OLB Mark Anderson

Speaking of the Patriots' superior offensive line, Mr. Anderson will help illustrate this point. The Patriots' edge rusher has had a solid season. 

He finished with 10 sacks in the regular season and then added another in the playoffs in the AFC Championship game. 

He will boost his pass rush numbers in this game, as he will be going against a struggling offensive line. 

In three playoff games, the Giants have allowed eight sacks and 24 QB hits. 

Giants' SS Kenny Phillips

Phillips is going to be a key to the Giants' defense. That is because a large part of the burden of stopping the Patriots dynamic TE attack is going to fall on Phillips. 

Phillips is a sure tackler with solid coverage skills. He is also a good matchup for the Patriots' big TEs. He is not quick, but he is fast and has solid size. He also has good ball skills. 

Phillips will provide excellent coverage on TEs Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski all game. He will break up a couple of passes and severely limit what the Patriots offense tries to accomplish.